Mouth-Body Connection

It may come as a surprise to you that your oral health has a close connection to your overall health. The mouth is the gateway to the body, so inflammation in the mouth can cause issues in the rest of the body. The reverse is also true—what goes on in your body can also affect your mouth.

If a person’s immune system is weak, they will be more prone to infections in the mouth. Many medicines can also affect the health of the mouth. Some medications can cause dry mouth, for example, which can increase the risk of tooth decay.

The relationship between diabetes and periodontal disease is very strong. Inflammation that begins in the oral cavity appears to weaken the body’s ability to control blood sugar. A mouth infection can also disrupt the blood-sugar levels of a patient who is diabetic, thus making the diabetes harder to control. Inflammation that results from gum disease has also been associated with things like heart disease and stroke. Researchers are exploring whether periodontal disease may also increase the risk of other medical issues.

During a dental exam, if Dr. Daniela Zambon notices a sign or symptom that may indicate an illness or disease of the body, she may refer you to your doctor or a specialist. To learn more about the mouth-body connection in Mansfield, Texas, and to schedule your next visit with our periodontist, contact our office at 817-453-7766 today.